Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) poster & wallpaper
Get movie widget Recommend it Add to Favorites

Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Denholm Elliott, Paul Freeman, Wolf Kahler ... see more see more... , John Rhys-Davies , Ronald Lacey , Anthony Higgins , Alfred Molina , Vic Tablian , Ishaq Bux , Anthony Chinn , Patrick Durkin , Don Fellows , Ted Grossman , William Hootkins , John Rees , Bill Reimbold , Terry Richards , Pat Roach , Matthew Scurfield , Kiran Shah , Fred Sorenson , Eddie Tagoe , Rocky Taylor , Tony Vogel , Vic Armstrong , Peter Brace , Gerry Crampton , Martin Grace , George Harris , Tutte Lemkow , Terry J. Leonard , Frank Marshall , Sergio Mioni , Chuck Waters , Bill Weston , Paul Weston , Jack Dearlove , Steve Hanson , Billy Horrigan , Mary Selway , Mike Fenton , Jane Feinberg , Malcolm Weaver , Reg Harding

Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) is no ordinary archeologist. When we first see him, he is somewhere in the Peruvian jungle in 1936, running a booby-trapped gauntlet (complete with an over-sized rolling ... read more read more...boulder) to fetch a solid-gold idol. He loses this artifact to his chief rival, a French archeologist named Belloq (Paul Freeman), who then prepares to kill our hero. In the first of many serial-like escapes, Indy eludes Belloq by hopping into a convenient plane. So, then: is Indiana Jones afraid of anything? Yes, snakes. The next time we see Jones, he's a soft-spoken, bespectacled professor. He is then summoned from his ivy-covered environs by Marcus Brody (Denholm Elliott) to find the long-lost Ark of the Covenant. The Nazis, it seems, are already searching for the Ark, which the mystical-minded Hitler hopes to use to make his stormtroopers invincible. But to find the Ark, Indy must first secure a medallion kept under the protection of Indy's old friend Abner Ravenwood, whose daughter, Marion (Karen Allen), evidently has a "history" with Jones. Whatever their personal differences, Indy and Marion become partners in one action-packed adventure after another, ranging from wandering the snake pits of the Well of Souls to surviving the pyrotechnic unearthing of the sacred Ark. A joint project of Hollywood prodigies George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, with a script co-written by Lawrence Kasdan and Philip Kaufman, among others, Raiders of the Lost Ark is not so much a movie as a 115-minute thrill ride. Costing 22 million dollars (nearly three times the original estimate), Raiders of the Lost Ark reaped 200 million dollars during its first run. It was followed by Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1985) and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), as well as a short-lived TV-series "prequel." ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

Flixster Users

93% liked it

735,433 ratings

Critics

94% liked it

51 critics

PG, 1 hr. 55 min.

Directed by: Steven Spielberg

Release Date: June 1, 1981

Invite friends to see

DVD Release Date: October 21, 2003

Stats: 35,666 reviews

report incorrect info

Photos

Raiders of the Lost Ark indy you think you me? Professor Jones race against time I donīt know.I m making this up as i go Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) adventure has a name:Indiana Jones are you ready? boulder dash the man himself Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) soundtrack cover art Indy i m making this up as i go. Indiana Jones Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark)
Upload a Photo | View All Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) Photos

Your Rating


clear rating

Flixster Reviews (35,666)

  • FilmFanatik
    March 4, 2012
    FilmFanatik
    When it comes to adventure movies with class that are well-made pieces of cinema, I can't think of a better example than the brainchild of George Lucas and Steven Spielberg. I'm talking about the great Raiders of the Lost Ark (or Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark as t... read morehey title it on the box art now). It's one of the last truly great action adventure films of the last thirty years that not only delivers on the genre's expectations, but also turns in remarkable performances, beautiful photography and incredible production values. It may have come first in the eventual series of films, but it's also the best. I also consider it to be one of the top five best films of Spielberg's entire career. Everything just came together like clockwork on this movie and it turned out better than anyone expected. It also holds up incredibly well as a dynamic and well-made popcorn movie. There would be sequels with the runaway success of the movie, of course, but this entry is a perfect mixture of talent, and it will never be topped, no matter how many sequels they make.
  • fb729949618
    September 29, 2011
    fb729949618
    Wow, where to begin. The first scene is one of the most iconic set pieces ever created, what a way to kick the movie off. Just looking at the names before viewing, I knew it was going to be amazing: Speilberg (director), Lucas (producer), and Ford (lead actor)! The acting was on ... read morepoint, the action scenes were thrilling, and it was suspenseful throughout its entirety. Truly one of a kind.
  • TomBowler
    September 19, 2011
    TomBowler
    It's tough to fault a film which begins with one of the very greatest set-pieces of all time and one of the most iconic images in film. Raiders of the Lost Ark's constant "outdo the last scene" mentality means that each scene is more bombastic than the last, moving from a giant b... read moreoulder rolling after our hero to a nail biting truck ride through the desert to the head-melting power of the ark itself. As well as this we have the introduction one of the greatest characters ever committed to celluloid, one of the most recognisable scores of all time and one of the most whip-smart and funny scripts of the 80s. And besides all these technical factors the overriding factor of the film is the fact that it's fun. Constantly. Impossibly, ludicrously, timelessly fun.

    When Indiana Jones is set on the hunt for the legendary Ark of the Covenant, he soon finds out that he's not the only one and that his competitors will stop at nothing to get there first.

    Stephen Spielberg had already made some incredible films, Jaws being the main one with Sugarland Express and Close Encounters of the Third as well. But he'd just made his first truly bad film with 1941 and he needed to get back on track. Well, he did. In his typically restrained though rich imagery, Spielberg makes every shot count every time. His understanding of his audience is shown through the nuance of each shot, whether it's the zoom in on a slowly turning Indy as he sees the boulder bearing down on him or the wide expanse of a hillside teeming with bloodthirsty natives. The fact that he's able to sustain this inspired imagery the whole way through the film shows his immense passion and expertise in his craft. He's able to handle the big moments as well as the smaller ones like the moments between Marion and Indy. He also subtly adds humour into everything he does, something added to immensely by Harrison Ford's fantastic performance as Indy.

    It's this performance that elevates the already fantastic character of Indiana Jones to something mythical. Whether it's a wry smile or a look of complete confusion, Harrison Ford creates a character who is not only someone to root for but also completely human in his limitations and the fact that, in his own words, "I'm just making this up as I go!" Karen Allen plays Marion Ravenwood, a girl with more fire than most of the action hero dames of late. She, like Ford manages to wring humour out of every situation as well being damn scary in others. Critically, and here's where all other action movies should take not, she's not just the princess to be rescued. Sure there are times when she in trouble and calling for Indy to give her a hand, but a lot of the time she's working on getting herself out of trouble, drinking her captors under the table before whipping out a knife, fighting side by side with Indy, she is in no way Indy's inferior and she's brilliant to boot. Thanfully we don't get treated to a spiel about women are just as good as men, preferring to talk with her actions. These two are a fantastic double act as well as being great on their own. Their often fiery conversations are as hilarious as they are telling about the undercurrent of sexual tension and they constantly try to outdo each other. The rest of the cast perform well too, John Rhys-Davies' Sallah is a booming delight and Paul Freemon's Belloq is fantastic as well.

    Whether you've seen the film or not, it's difficult to have gone through life without hearing John Williams' amazing score. A perfect combination of upbeat and triumphant, Williams' main theme soars through the thrilling moments, making them that much more thrilling to watch. Typical of Williams he punctuates the action, drama and thrills to equal effect, each one with its own iconic sound and each one linking together in a beautiful harmony. It's an amazing achievement though, in a body of work this incredible, it's almost just another day at the office for Williams. He is the undisputed master of score and this is one of his most unforgettable masterpieces.

    Lawrence Kasdan's script is another of the factors in an already fantastic movie. Each line is quotable and memorable, specifically because he never says more than he has to say. In a brilliant display of understanding his character, Kasdan offers up lines which suit Indy to a tee; funny, dry and sardonic. The delivery of the actors may makeable certifiable gold but Kasdan's words should be an inspiration to action writers from now till kingdom come.

    There might only be a dozen films ever made that you can watch anytime in any mood and this is among them. Vintage Spielberg, Ford at the top of his game and, of course, that theme. What more could you want?

    Defining Scene:
    That first brilliant scene. Despite the increasingly fantastic action set-pieces, for a start to a film and an introduction to a character, you don't get much better than this.

    Quotes:
    Where shall I find a new adversary so close to my own level?
    Try the sewer.

    Throw me the idol, I'll throw you the whip!

    You're not the man I knew ten years ago.
    It's not the years honey, it's the mileage.

    Snake. Why'd it have to be snakes?
    Asps. Very dangerous. You go first.

    I don't know, I'm making this up as I go!
  • TheGame90
    September 18, 2011
    TheGame90
    I'm not the biggest fan...But it's a classic. Don't really is much to say.
  • ajaymuthecooldevils
    August 14, 2011
    ajaymuthecooldevils
    It's a great start for our favorite archeologist, Indiana Jones, to start his journey.. Steven Spielberg made another well-packed action movie that made the audience will having some fun while watching it.. I must say Harrison Ford successfully playing the character Indiana Jones... read more which looks a little bit like James Bond when he get closer to woman, while Karen Allen made the movie more lively with her performance as a brave young woman.. The story itself was okay, at least I have fun while watching it.. John Williams made a great and memorable score for this movie.. Overall, it's not a really great movie, but it's particularly a good movie to be watched, especially for family fun..
  • spielberg00
    August 6, 2011
    spielberg00
    I just watched RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK for the fifth time in July, and I noticed more than I ever had before. It's a great film, an instant classic, and a successful hit to be remembered.
  • brownman83
    June 19, 2011
    brownman83
    Let me start by saying that this was one of the most excellent films of the 80s. Exciting, fast-paced, and a masterpiece itself. The debt that Harrison Ford brings to his character is outstanding, and nothing made his carreer lift off as well as this. This film is perfect in many... read more ways, besides the dialogue. but for right now, I'll start with the story. The idea of finding the Lost Ark is not very original, for it was attempted many times in real life. But the fact that an archeoligist, inside a Nazi camp, with plenty of back-stabbers, and the sexiest, most beatiful women he'll ever meet AND trying to find the lost ark. Now thats original. Then the acting in this film is pure goodness. Sadly, Harrison Ford wasw robbed of a nomination-yes, not an award, but a NOMINATION- and thats just sad for the Academy. The acting by lead actress Karen Allen isnt as good as I hoped, but still a passing grade. Which is just one of the reasons why I gave this film an 8, not an expected 10, like most people. So, acting is good. Then comes the cinematagrophy. Wow. Next is the sound and soundtrack. This main theme might have been one of the best ever. Its one of the most recognizable, and it is such a pity that it didn't win the Academy Award. John Williams seemed to have put in a ton of effort into building this soundtrack, and it paid off. Never has a main theme been more enjoyable to listen to, other than Star War's and Pirates of the Carribean's. It will live on not in just movie history, but musical history, as well. Then I move on to the special effects. The special effects in this film were very gratifying, especially in the 80s. When I saw this film, I could've sworn it wasn't a movie from the 20th century. But, as usual, the wonders if film tricked me again. What great effects and what genuine editing. It's all simply marvelous. But then I move on to what mainly gave this movie an 8. The dialogue. Some of the dialogue in this film was to much to handle, and I really couldn't. When the dialogue was good, it was alright, but when it was bad, it was horrible. And most of the time it was bad. "You can't do this to me, I'm an AMERICAN," was one of the most memorable quotes. Yes, most memorable. But I wont complain anymore, because all in all, this film is as adventure films get. In the end, I give it a deserving 80/100
  • DreamExtractor
    June 16, 2011
    DreamExtractor
    One of the greatest films of its time, it was amazing. Harrison Ford was born for this role, he oozes cool and excitement in an amazing way. The plots a work of art because it brings together bible legends, puzzles, treasure, and one of the greatest stories ever made. Music ha... read mores stood the test of time and the theme is classic. Chase scenes and action moments were well done and totally Spielbergs work. Love this movie.
  • FiLmCrAzY
    June 5, 2011
    FiLmCrAzY
    i love the indiana jones franchise, they are all interesting, exciting and funny.
    I love the storylines and i love harrison ford as the lead.
    This is just an entertaining and enjoyable movie that i cant fault and should be watched.
  • mjgildea
    May 19, 2011
    mjgildea
    Raiders of the Lost Ark is as every bit as great when I watched it at 36 as it was when I originally saw it in the theater at 6. It serves as a great story and could also pass for a series of great scenes. Its obviously the best of the series and Harrison Ford has rarely been bet... read moreter. The action is as great as the story and its got just the right amount of humor. And the villains, anytime you have Nazis as the bad guys you know you're probably in for something good. If you don't enjoy this move even remotely you've got serious problems and need to see a neurologist. And if you haven't seen Raiders of the Lost Ark and you're currently ambulatory, what the hell are you waiting for?

View All Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) Reviews

Critic Reviews

Richard Schickel
August 8, 2011
Richard Schickel, TIME Magazine

Raiders of the Lost Ark has it all -- or, anyway, more than enough to transport moviegoers back to the dazzling, thrill-sated matinee idyls of old. Full Review

Pauline Kael
May 27, 2008
Pauline Kael, New Yorker

The thrills are fully consumed while you're seeing this movie, and it's totally over when it's over. It's a workout. You feel as if you'd been to the desert digs: at the end your mind is blank, yet yo... Full Review

Stephen Klain
June 28, 2007
Stephen Klain, Variety

...a crackerjack fantasy-adventure that shapes its pulp sensibilities and cliff-hanging serial origins into an exhilarating escapist entertainment that will have broad-cased summer audiences in the pa... Full Review

Dave Kehr
June 28, 2007
Dave Kehr, Chicago Reader

One would think that a collaboration between Steven Spielberg and George Lucas would produce something better than this giggly pastiche of a Republic serial... Full Review

James Berardinelli
November 6, 2003
James Berardinelli, ReelViews

This is the kind of movie that, even today, audiences immediately fall in love with. It has all the right ingredients: a smart script, a likable hero, a dash of romance, more than a touch of comedy, a... Full Review

Vincent Canby
May 20, 2003
Vincent Canby, New York Times

To get to the point immediately, Raiders of the Lost Ark is one of the most deliriously funny, ingenious and stylish American adventure movies ever made. Full Review

Roger Ebert
January 1, 2000
Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

The movie is just plain fun. Full Review

Tim Brayton
December 18, 2011
Tim Brayton, Antagony & Ecstasy

Breathtakingly efficient, immaculately constructed... This is the ne plus ultra of blockbuster filmmaking. Full Review

Widgett Walls
May 17, 2011
Widgett Walls, Needcoffee.com

It is the classic film [by] Lucas, Spielberg...back before they were replaced by automatons put here by aliens. Full Review

Randy White
January 2, 2011
Randy White, Common Sense Media

A thrill ride and a half. Full Review

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Cast

More Like This

Click a thumb to vote on that suggestion, or add your own suggestions.

  • Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull
    Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal ... (94%)
  • Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
    Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (95%)
  • Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
    Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (93%)
  • The Dark Tower
    The Dark Tower (50%)

More Movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark)

Facts

Submit a Fact | View All
    • Sallah: Bad dates.
    • Sallah: Indy, there is something that troubles me.
    • Indiana Jones: What is it?
    • Sallah: The Ark. If is there at Tanis, then it is something that Man was not meant to disturb. Death has always surrounded it. It is not of this Earth.
    • Indiana Jones: Snakes. Why'd it have to be snakes?
    • Indiana Jones: Don't look, Marion! Keep your eyes SHUT!
    • Indiana Jones: There's a big snake in the plane, Jock!
    • Jock: Oh, that's just my pet snake, Reggie!
    • Indiana Jones: I hate snakes, Jock! I hate 'em!
    • Jock: Come on! Show a little backbone, will ya?!
    • Sallah: Asps... very dangerous. You go first.
Submit a Fact | View All

Raiders of the Lo... : Watch Free on TV

Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) Trivia

Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana ... Trivia

  • Which indiana Jones movie has Karen Allen in it?  Answer »
  • The Follow up To Raiders Of The Lost Ark! (Indianna Jones Triology!)  Answer »
  • I can name that movie in ? notes! Listen and pick the movie that made it famous or vice versa  Answer »
  • Which of the following is the CORRECT sequel to Raiders of the lost ark?  Answer »
More Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) Trivia

Movie Quizzes

Create a Quiz |

All Quizzes

Video Clips

Upload a Video |

All Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) Videos

Meet Other Fans

Add Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) to favorites

Recent News

Submit a Story |

View Raiders of the Lost Ark (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark) News

Recent Lists

Make a List |

View All Lists

Most Popular Skin

markdarin Skin by markdarin
403 Profiles
Add to Profile

More Skins